METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Report finds ride-hailing services impacting public transit ridership

After TNCs enter a market, heavy rail ridership can be expected to decrease by 1.3% and bus ridership by 1.7%.

January 24, 2019
Report finds ride-hailing services impacting public transit ridership

Ride-hailing effects are so substantial that, if the current trend continues, bus service in cities studied by UK researchers could be hit nearly 13% over the eight years.

Lyft

1 min to read


Ride-hailing effects are so substantial that, if the current trend continues, bus service in cities studied by UK researchers could be hit nearly 13% over the eight years. Lyft

LEXINGTON, Ky. — A team from the University of Kentucky (UK) has found the introduction of ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft have had a drastic impact on public transit ridership across the U.S., Business Insider reports.

The UK study found that for each year after Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) enter a market, heavy rail ridership can be expected to decrease by 1.3% and bus ridership can be expected to decrease by 1.7%.

Ad Loading...

Using a random-effects model, the team set out to look at ride-hail and transit trends in 22 of the nation’s largest cities. The study accounted for 10 different variables, including population, density, proportional car ownership, gas prices, and transit miles in each metro area.

Ride-hailing effects are so substantial that, if the current trend continues, bus service in cities studied by UK researchers could be hit nearly 13% over the eight years. For the full story, click here.

To view the full report, click here.


More New Mobility

A Nova LFSe+ electric bus for STM
Technologyby Staff and News ReportsJune 18, 2026

Biz Briefs: Montréal Debuts Nova Electric Buses and More

In this edition of Biz Briefs, we spotlight the latest developments shaping the future of mobility.

Read More →
A Merchants Fleet driver putting gas in a vehicle with text reading "6 Transit Management Lessons For Colleges and Universities."
New MobilityJune 15, 2026

6 Transit Management Lessons for Colleges and Universities Facing Seasonal Demand Swings

College transportation demand swings wildly throughout the year. Fleet strategies are starting to catch up.

Read More →
Driving Change Through Technology
Technologyby Alex RomanJune 12, 2026

METROspectives: CharterUP CEO Armir Harris on Modernizing Mobility

From digital transformation to evolving customer demands, CharterUP's CEO Armir Harris offers his perspective on the transportation industry's next chapter.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
New MobilityJune 5, 2026

Joshua Schank on Transportation Innovation, Risk, and the Future of Mobility

In this edition of METROspectives, Joshua Schank discusses lessons from launching LA Metro’s Office of Extraordinary Innovation, the challenges of advancing new mobility technologies, and much more.

Read More →
frontrunner bus image
SponsoredJune 1, 2026

Low-Floor vs. High-Floor Cutaway vs. Modified Van: How 3 Accessible Minibus Designs Compare

As transit demands evolve, so should your fleet. Download the whitepaper to see how the Low-Floor Frontrunner Minibus compares to traditional options.

Read More →
METROspectives episode with Joshua Schank
Technologyby Alex RomanMay 29, 2026

Joshua Schank on Transportation Innovation, Risk, and the Future of Mobility

In this edition of METROspectives, the co-author of New Tricks for Old Bureaucracies, discusses lessons from launching LA Metro’s Office of Extraordinary Innovation, the challenges of advancing new mobility technologies, and much more.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Biz Briefs for May 29, 2026

Biz Briefs: Foothill Gold Line Award, Matawan Contract, and More

From strategic partnerships to acquisitions and service expansions, the industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Find out all the latest here.

Read More →
An EMBARK bus going down the street.
Managementby Alex RomanMay 28, 2026

Inside Look: EMBARK Expands Fare-Free Transit Program Through New Public-Private Partnership

The OKC transit agency says sponsorship helps subsidize the Third Friday Free initiative while reducing barriers for first-time riders and boosting ridership across buses, streetcars, and river cruises.

Read More →
thumbnail for 2026 METRO Buyer’s Guide & Directory
SponsoredMay 27, 2026

2026 METRO Buyer’s Guide & Directory

Searching for the right vehicles, technology, equipment, or services for your public transit or motorcoach operation? This industry guide brings together manufacturers and suppliers from across the transportation market — all in one place. Download it to connect with the companies that help agencies and operators improve mobility, enhance operations, and move their organizations forward.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
A Heliox charger on KC Metro property

King County Test Heliox Chargers, Keolis Lands California Contract Top Biz Briefs

Stay informed with these quick takes on the projects and companies driving progress across the transportation landscape.

Read More →